We can’t believe how fast summer is going so far. Hopefully, everyone has had a chance to enjoy the great outdoors so far. We love being able to spend time with family and friends while enjoying the gorgeous sunny days or perfect cooler nights. One way to enjoy this time outdoors is by creating an outdoor living space that is perfect for your home, whether you plan on entertaining guests every weekend, or just need an area to sit back and relax. We compiled 4 quick tips on how you can start to create or enhance your outdoor living space so you can enjoy the rest of your summer!
Bring the Indoors Out
Many times when decorating an interior room, we start with a focal point and then add on. You decorate your room with different furnishings that complement each other, and then add beautiful textiles and accessories that pull the look together. Decorating an outdoor living space is no different. Think of your outdoor space as an extension of your home. By incorporating the same elements, like rugs, tables, pillows, and cushions, you can bring all the coziness of an indoor space out to your patio. Also, just like the inside of your home, you can create separate spaces throughout your outdoor living. This could include incorporating a dedicated area for outdoor dining right next to your outdoor living room. Make your outdoor living space as welcoming and inviting as your indoor spaces! Check out more of our favorites in our “Outdoor Living Spaces” HOUZZ Ideabook.
Define the Space
Many of our interior main levels have an open-concept floorplan. Although the kitchen, dining, and great room are open, we work to include unique design characteristics that help define each space, whether it’s architectural variations or simple ones like painting or adding unique millwork between the rooms. This can also come into play when designing an outdoor living space. Although the backyard could be wide open to the world, there are ways you can make or create defined spaces. Incorporating a fence or privacy screen can create a closed-in private area in your backyard. Adding a pergola or outdoor string lights could help form an intimate living area by creating an outdoor “ceiling”. You can find more examples of this in our “Outdoor Living Spaces” Houzz Ideabook.
Add Great Lighting
Lighting is everything. It can help set a mood and create a relaxing environment, plus it’s easy to change. The fun part about lighting is that there are so many different options! Incorporating a combination of electrical and natural lighting will help create the perfect ambiance for your space, and add an element of elegance. Electrical lights could include draping outdoor string lights above seating, adding a lamp on a side table, or creating an outdoor chandelier with hanging lights. Sources of natural light that you could implement could be different types of candles, an open fire pit, or lanterns. You can find more great lighting examples in our “Outdoor Living Spaces” Houzz Ideabook.
Make It Yours
The most important aspect of creating an outdoor space is to make it somewhere YOU will love to be. Have the space reflect you and what you love. If modern design is your jam, find some cool pieces with sleek lines. If you plan to use the space as a whimsical rustic hideaway, mix wood and metals in beautiful, rich neutral colors with lots of dim lighting. Add some bright colors and patterns if that makes you happy! Maybe you envision your space as a place to host elegant dinners, or maybe it’s a place to just relax in the privacy of your own backyard. Whatever it may be, make sure that it’s a space that YOU feel comfortable in.
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